siberian huskies

leelaaloo

Hi
Anyone out there lucky enough to have a siberian husky? am considering one as a family pet, have heard they have a lovely temperament but would love to hear from an owner of one. Are they good with young children?

Ado86

I'm not an owner of one personally, but I have worked with quite a few of them. Temperament is not one of their strong points unfortunately, a lot are quite snappy and a dog that size who is snappy, would definitely not be a good dog for children. I don't think they would tolerate kids pulling at them etc
Others may disagree, but these are the experiences I've had...

What makes you want a Siberian husky ?

RubyGirl

http://www.tailsandtrails.ie/content.php

Great website to start. Lots of Sibe owners. There is someone on here aswell that runs a rescue aswell.

Cherry Blossom

ISDW posts here on boards (Irish Sledge Dog Welfare) If you send a PM with details of your situation I'm sure would happily give you plenty of advice and determine if the breed is suitable for you

sarahw7

Hi Leelaaloo,

My family have a Siberian Husky, he will be two in a few months. He is a great dog but has been a lot of hard work. We found him to be very dominant from a very young age and training him was, and still is, very difficult. He gets stronger and stronger by the day and has an unlimited supply of energy. He is fine with children and adults, as are most dogs once they have been properly socialised from a young age. He is a really fun and lovable dog and we don't regret getting him for one second, but of all the dogs we have ever had he has been the most work.

andreac

I wouldnt be rushing out to get sibe as a family pet unless you are prepared to put in a lot of work exercising and even working the dog.

These dogs are high energy dogs which need more than the average daily exercise of other dogs.
They were bred to work, pull sleds etc so if they are not worked or get huge amounts of exercise you will have problems and can be become very destructive.

They also cannot be let off lead as they have a high prey drive and can end up running and running if they get a scent of something and will not come back.

I would urge you to do a lot of research into this breed before getting one as they are not the cute family dog that a lot of people think they are.
People get them and dont realise the work that they need and the problems that occur with them if they arent looked after properly.

daenerysstormborn3

If you research what sibes were originally bred for this may help with your decision. While I firmly believe with proper and consistent training a dog can be trained to do almost anything it is sometimes hard to overwhelm a dog's inbuilt instinct and for a sibe they are naturally very energetic, strong dogs and thus may not be suitable for a house with children.

This is just my opinion on the dog, never owned one and don't know anyone who has one, although have met many owners with their sibes while out walking and the majority of them have said the same thing, that they are difficult to walk with as they are so strong.

Good luck with your decision and as with any breed it's definitely best to speak to someone or an organisation with experience with the breed.

Cherry Blossom

No personal experience of the breed either but for some reason I have always imagined the breed has more primal instincts than most, natural born roamers, extreme athletes and not the most human orientated of dogs.

Shanao

The sibes are a pretty old breed and more inclined to go with instinct than some other dogs. I've worked with and trained a few and there's a lot of work needed to go into them. Not to mention that they're howlers!! I personally dont think they are a great breed to bring into a house with young children, kids over ten is better. They are extremely strong and trying to move thirty odd kgs of determined dog is harder than you might think. I would do a lot of research and maybe consider some other breeds. Far too many people are getting sibes lately because they think they look 'cool' and they forget about what these dogs were bred to do.

TooManyDogs

Shanao wrote: »

Far too many people are getting sibes lately because they think they look 'cool' and they forget about what these dogs were bred to do.

Totally agree, I think the movies have a great deal to do with this too. People see huskies in movies like 'sled dogs' or '8 below' and think it'd be cool to have one of those dogs but forget that the dogs in the movie are highly trained. You see breeds featured in movies turning up in rescues a year or so after the movie gets released when people realise they're not an ideal pet for them and they don't behave like the one in the movie did. I cringe now when I see a movie featuring a purebred dog

leelaaloo

Hi ado86
I've just always liked them and they're so adorable as pups. But is just one type of dog am thinking of.or was thinking of. thanks for the advice.

leelaaloo

thanks rubygirl.will check it out.

leelaaloo

adrenalinjunkie wrote: »

ISDW posts here on boards (Irish Sledge Dog Welfare) If you send a PM with details of your situation I'm sure would happily give you plenty of advice and determine if the breed is suitable for you

thanks adrenalinjunkie.will check them out.

leelaaloo

TooManyDogs wrote: »

Totally agree, I think the movies have a great deal to do with this too. People see huskies in movies like 'sled dogs' or '8 below' and think it'd be cool to have one of those dogs but forget that the dogs in the movie are highly trained. You see breeds featured in movies turning up in rescues a year or so after the movie gets released when people realise they're not an ideal pet for them and they don't behave like the one in the movie did. I cringe now when I see a movie featuring a purebred dog

toomanydogs and shanao
don't know if they're cool or not .that's not my reason to look at them.but thanks for the advice.I think my best bet is to go to a dog show and have a chat with breeders as to the best type of dog to get with kiddies.

leelaaloo

pixiebean22 wrote: »

If you research what sibes were originally bred for this may help with your decision. While I firmly believe with proper and consistent training a dog can be trained to do almost anything it is sometimes hard to overwhelm a dog's inbuilt instinct and for a sibe they are naturally very energetic, strong dogs and thus may not be suitable for a house with children.

This is just my opinion on the dog, never owned one and don't know anyone who has one, although have met many owners with their sibes while out walking and the majority of them have said the same thing, that they are difficult to walk with as they are so strong.

Good luck with your decision and as with any breed it's definitely best to speak to someone or an organisation with experience with the breed.

thanks pixiebean22
you're dead right, that's my plan, was just getting advice off the wise board people first...

leelaaloo

andreac wrote: »

I wouldnt be rushing out to get sibe as a family pet unless you are prepared to put in a lot of work exercising and even working the dog.

These dogs are high energy dogs which need more than the average daily exercise of other dogs.
They were bred to work, pull sleds etc so if they are not worked or get huge amounts of exercise you will have problems and can be become very destructive.

They also cannot be let off lead as they have a high prey drive and can end up running and running if they get a scent of something and will not come back.

I would urge you to do a lot of research into this breed before getting one as they are not the cute family dog that a lot of people think they are.
People get them and dont realise the work that they need and the problems that occur with them if they arent looked after properly.

sounds like would be a good dog if you wanted to get fit.which me and my husband do.he's a strong character and well used to training strong dogs but as you say will take my time and make a v informed decision.thanks..

leelaaloo

sarahw7 wrote: »

Hi Leelaaloo,

My family have a Siberian Husky, he will be two in a few months. He is a great dog but has been a lot of hard work. We found him to be very dominant from a very young age and training him was, and still is, very difficult. He gets stronger and stronger by the day and has an unlimited supply of energy. He is fine with children and adults, as are most dogs once they have been properly socialised from a young age. He is a really fun and lovable dog and we don't regret getting him for one second, but of all the dogs we have ever had he has been the most work.

thanks sarahw7
i've a lot to think about.best of luck with him..sounds great but a handful

Kya1976

I have a husky(Leon) and I've had other huskies in the past too.
Leon is great on and off the lead, he's pretty well trained. I've done a lot of different classes with him like agility and tracking etc.
I work part time as a dog trainer so I've of course done obedience with him as well:p

They are 'high maintenance' imo, they are working dogs are need a lot of exercise and if they dont get enoyugh exercise/mental stimulation they can get(like all dogs really) destructive.

Unless you are very active person I don't think a husky is a good choice, if you are go for it:)

TooManyDogs

leelaaloo wrote: »

I think my best bet is to go to a dog show and have a chat with breeders as to the best type of dog to get with kiddies.

That's a good idea, there's normally a big one in the Irish Kennel Club place on Paddy's day, might be worthwhile to check it out

leelaaloo

exactly the one I was thinking of .great minds

Chris_Heilong

Most people I see out for a walk have at least two of them and they usually seem very well behaved, They are high energy at least as much as say a Collie or a Lab(both working breeds), A genetic test was done recently and they were found to be one of the most ancient dog breeds which is genetically almost identical to the Wolf along so thats where the howling will be coming from then.

I am not one to talk as I just got an Alaskan Malamute and everything that everybody has said about Sibs is equally valid to Malamute except Mals are almost twice the size:eek:

heres my new guy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksdk_AJ9rwY

ISDW

Sibes are fantastic dogs, and they should be great with kids. The Chuckchi people used to work the dogs during the day, pulling the sleds, then they would sleep with the children of the tribe at night to keep them warm, so any that were aggressive were culled. Unfortunately, with the over-breeding of them that has happened here in the last few years, there is some aggression in some lines. So if you do want to get one, make sure you go to a reputable breeder, the All Ireland Siberian Husky Club should be able to help you.

You need a secure garden, with fencing at least 6 foot high, and that also goes down into the ground, as if they can't go over it, they will go under it. 6 foot may not be enough, sometimes they will climb like cats, so need jackal fencing, the sort that overhangs backwards. yes, they obviously need exercising, but this always has to be on lead as they have such a high prey drive, and stubborn streak that they can take off and not come back - they know you have no chance of catching them.

They are not a loyal breed, they can be quite aloof, I always think they are the most cat-like dog there is, which is very ironic considering they will usually kill cats, even ones they have lived with for years unfortunately. Never, ever leave a sibe alone with a small furry animal, and I have heard horror stories of them killing a cat they've grown up with, whilst the owner has been in the room, but unable to get there in time:( They would be set free during the summer to look after themselves, so this prey drive is hard wired into them.

They are trainable, otherwise they couldn't work as sled dogs, however, it is this work that means they have an independence as well. A good lead dog in Alaska/Siberia, or similar place, would need to be able to change the direction of the team if they felt a shift in the ice under their paws, or noticed something ahead. The dog needs to have the confidence and independence to do this even if the musher is telling it to go on straight, good mushers trust their dogs. A sibe will do what you tell it until it doesn't want to anymore:D

I would recommend them as long as you are willing to put the time in and exercise the dog properly. As much as they love their exercise, they also love their sofa time, in my experience they have two speeds, flat out running, or flat out sleeping, no in between. They can be destructive, and don't bark, but can howl, however I love that sound, and love the chats you can have with them.

There are different lines available, most of the breeders in Ireland are selling pet huskies, rather than out and out working lines. There is a couple in Northern Ireland who have imported some sibes from the U.S., including some dogs that have run the Iditarod, and have that kind of heritage. Those dogs definitely need a working home, but you will be able to find a responsible breeder with lovely sibes that are capable of working, but would also be a good family pet.

Best of luck:D

DMG_49

andreac wrote: »

I wouldnt be rushing out to get sibe as a family pet unless you are prepared to put in a lot of work exercising and even working the dog.

These dogs are high energy dogs which need more than the average daily exercise of other dogs.
They were bred to work, pull sleds etc so if they are not worked or get huge amounts of exercise you will have problems and can be become very destructive.

They also cannot be let off lead as they have a high prey drive and can end up running and running if they get a scent of something and will not come back.

I would urge you to do a lot of research into this breed before getting one as they are not the cute family dog that a lot of people think they are.
People get them and dont realise the work that they need and the problems that occur with them if they arent looked after properly.

Think your bang on there

Best thing to do is research, even coming on here getting people opinion is good.

My sibe was brought up around children, she loves children.

As said they need a lot of walking (something to take the energy out of them) as they tend to not settle otherwise.

Also grooming is another story people don't realise the amount of hair on them.

As for temperament think thats the least of your worries, if there brought up around children they should be fine.

TooManyDogs

DMG_49 wrote: »

As said they need a lot of walking (something to take the energy out of them) as they tend to not settle otherwise.

Your post just reminded me - there's a woman I often see in our local supermarket, she has a husky whom she uses as her trolley! She goes into the shop, buys her groceries and then packs them into his backpack and off they go!

Chris_Heilong

TooManyDogs wrote: »

Your post just reminded me - there's a woman I often see in our local supermarket, she has a husky whom she uses as her trolley! She goes into the shop, buys her groceries and then packs them into his backpack and off they go!

Thats what I told my wife when convincing her to go for the Malamute, I said we will buy him a jacket with lots of pockets and load him up when walking home, only problem I see is shops wont allow animals in and you cant just tie them up outside as they maybe stolen.

Leprecunt

We've got one, he's a few months old now. Amazing dogs, very friendly, but I must warn ya, they're absolute nutters as pups!

TooManyDogs

Chris_Heilong wrote: »

Thats what I told my wife when convincing her to go for the Malamute, I said we will buy him a jacket with lots of pockets and load him up when walking home, only problem I see is shops wont allow animals in and you cant just tie them up outside as they maybe stolen.

I guess we're lucky, we live in a small village so dogs very rarely get stolen but in general that's a very good point

daenerysstormborn3

Chris_Heilong wrote: »

Most people I see out for a walk have at least two of them and they usually seem very well behaved, They are high energy at least as much as say a Collie or a Lab(both working breeds), A genetic test was done recently and they were found to be one of the most ancient dog breeds which is genetically almost identical to the Wolf along so thats where the howling will be coming from then.

I am not one to talk as I just got an Alaskan Malamute and everything that everybody has said about Sibs is equally valid to Malamute except Mals are almost twice the size:eek:

heres my new guy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksdk_AJ9rwY

He is very cute and your other dog is lovely also. Titan is a great name

PeakOutput

ISDW wrote: »

yes, they obviously need exercising, but this always has to be on lead as they have such a high prey drive, and stubborn streak that they can take off and not come back - they know you have no chance of catching them.

have definitely noticed that, we have a 7 month old female right now and i let her off in a big park when we are out. she only runs about 50 feet then waits or runs in a 50ft circle dosnt respond to come commands until she wants to but its usually only a few minutes, but if there is another dog around and that dogs owner is calling it she is gonnnnne. walking in the opposite direction seems to work and she will follow me back but thats not really good enough need to be able to trust her to just stop dead when i say. good with random children and people without dogs though dosnt go running up to them if i tell her to stop and behaves well if the kids come up to her.

my sister has had her through weeks of puppy training and she knows the commands like sit, paw, lie down, stay but only really does them when it suits her (ie when there is food in your hand)

nippy, yes but its only when one of us is playing rough with her and there is never really a bite down its just mouth over our hands but id still love it to stop

isdw, any advice on getting her properly trained, besides more classes which im sure she will do even though they are ridicolously expensive, its my sisters first dog as an 'adult' and what she sees as being strict to her cute husky and what is actually being strict are two completely different things i fear.

PeakOutput

Chris_Heilong wrote: »

Thats what I told my wife when convincing her to go for the Malamute, I said we will buy him a jacket with lots of pockets and load him up when walking home, only problem I see is shops wont allow animals in and you cant just tie them up outside as they maybe stolen.

apparently if they are chipped and it says so on the collar thieves wont take them

Zapperzy

PeakOutput wrote: »

apparently if they are chipped and it says so on the collar thieves wont take them

While that can be a deterant unfortunately it doesn't always happen. I know of a dog that was stolen and it had it's chip cut out of it's neck, luckily it was dumped on the other side of the country and re-united with it's owners but it demonstrates the lengths that these 'people' will go to. :mad:

A tag that says 'neutered' would also be a deterant if they are stealing to breed.

boomerang

This popped up on another forum recently:


If you have ever uttered to yourself, “please dear Lord, let that pass through ‘em without the need for surgical attention.” …You probably own a Husky.

If valuable objects in your home are ranked according to jumping height from the ground …You probably own a Husky.

If you’ve thought, at least once in the past month, that you should be nominated for Sainthood…You probably own a Husky.

If you’ve been on walks with your dog and thought, “Oh, I hope nobody just witnessed THAT!” …You probably own a Husky.

If your dog thinks or thought at any time in life, that its full name may be part of a curse word…You probably own a Husky.

If you have more fur in your home than your dog has on it, giving the appearance to outsiders that you reside inside of a cotton ball…You probably own a Husky.

If you have started a veterinary fund for “just in case” moments…You probably own a Husky.

If you have a ‘correct dog placement process’ before answering your front door…You probably own a Husky.

If your backyard looks like fencing seen at Alcatraz…You probably own Husky.

If the family cat or other small animals in the home look at your dog as if they know they could be bumped off at any time…You probably own a Husky.

If you’ve ever responded to your spouse or other family members in the home with, “Don’t tell me, I don’t even want to know about it!” You probably own a Husky.

If one or more pieces of fur make it daily into a dish or beverage that you continue to consider perfectly consumable. However, you would freak out if you found a human hair…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever lost out on a meal because you weren’t paying attention, or blinked…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever thought to yourself ‘why would anyone do this twice’ and then do it again…willingly…You probably own a Husky.

If you purchase black clothing, full well knowing you will wear it gray…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever been in the process of cleaning up the first disaster when your dog is working on a second…You probably own a Husky.

If you have now purchased stock in a sticky roller company…You probably own a Husky.

If you have advised anyone as to which vacuum is the “best on the market”…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever gotten a call by the veterinarian that it is not only okay to pick up your dog early from its procedure, but it is now being encouraged…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever had to chase your dog through your neighborhood, barefoot, because putting on shoes would’ve taken far too long…You probably own a Husky.

If your yearly Christmas tree is now decorated at the top only, and/or has been securely anchored to a wall…You probably own a Husky.

If you can’t even remember what your good holiday decorations look like, because you no longer display them…You probably own a Husky.

If you’ve ever had to explain to your children/step children that ‘no they haven’t been bad, you just can’t put any presents under the tree until they are ready to be opened’…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever laughed manically at an obedience trainer’s ad that boasts they “can change any behavior within the first visit”…You probably own a Husky.

If your dog’s toy bin resembles a scene from the beaches of Normandy rather than anything from a PetSmart shelf…You probably own a Husky.

If Goodwill has declined to take items of yours….You probably own a Husky.

If you can carry on a conversation with your dog better than you could with most people you’ve met…You probably own a Husky.

If your dog and your family are of equal worth and importance to you…You probably own a Husky.

ISDW

PeakOutput wrote: »

have definitely noticed that, we have a 7 month old female right now and i let her off in a big park when we are out. she only runs about 50 feet then waits or runs in a 50ft circle dosnt respond to come commands until she wants to but its usually only a few minutes, but if there is another dog around and that dogs owner is calling it she is gonnnnne. walking in the opposite direction seems to work and she will follow me back but thats not really good enough need to be able to trust her to just stop dead when i say. good with random children and people without dogs though dosnt go running up to them if i tell her to stop and behaves well if the kids come up to her.

my sister has had her through weeks of puppy training and she knows the commands like sit, paw, lie down, stay but only really does them when it suits her (ie when there is food in your hand)

nippy, yes but its only when one of us is playing rough with her and there is never really a bite down its just mouth over our hands but id still love it to stop

isdw, any advice on getting her properly trained, besides more classes which im sure she will do even though they are ridicolously expensive, its my sisters first dog as an 'adult' and what she sees as being strict to her cute husky and what is actually being strict are two completely different things i fear.

You will find with most sibes that are good off lead until they hit about 10 months of age, thats when they realise they can outrun you:p

You sound as though you and your sister have been doing the right things with training, I firmly believe that you need to train recall to sibes, even though you won't let them off the lead. Accidents can happen, yesterday on a beach, two of my dogs got tangled up, and somehow the clip opened on one of the leads, letting one of the dogs free. Thankfully he didn't realise, and he lay down and I got his lead back on.

There is a woman in Ireland that does obedience and agility with a siberian, which is fantastic, and I really admire her, but that is the exception. Treat based training is the way to go, you just have to find something that the dog really, really, really loves. Liver is one thing, or little bits of cheese, or hot dog.

A backpack is also a good thing, once the dog is a bit older, makes them work when they're walking. And if you want to teach the dog left and right, you may hitch it up to a scooter or bike then when its over a year old. Gee for right, Haw for left are the usual mushing commands. Just when you're walking, every time you turn, say the word, the dog will learn.

Irishcrx

Another Sibe owner here, my lad is two this month and I have to say they are a fantastic breed. As mentioned they need alot of exercise and training, but that has build my bond with him over the two years so much I wouldn't have done it any other way. I have had so much craic with him, he has so much personality, has made me laugh more than anyone has before. There is not one ounce of aggression in him, nor is he very skittish around other people. He is great with children, all my nieces and nephews love him and he loves to play with them. I wouldn't change him for the world, I also have a German shep and they get along likea house on fire.

However, remember that they are not all like this. Overbreeding has in some dogs caused a spike in their aggression and I have seen this aswell, so if buying do reserach and find a good breeder. Also be ready to give them the time and effort they need to become a good dog. As puppys and through all their life really they require a firm owner who will lay the law down when needed.

mel.b

I don't have a husky but have owned several malamutes. As another poster said mals are similar to huskies, except huskies are built for speed and mals for strength.

They are a great breed of dog and honestly i wouldn't have anything else. However they are a lot of work. Obedience training from day 1 is an absoute must. I also found using a 'halti' rather than the traditional leads makes them much easier to walk. I can't believe the number of people i see walking mals and huskies with shoulder harnesses. These dogs were breed to pull and put a shoulder harness on them and that is exactly what they are going to do!

The girl we had while i was growing up was fantastic with small kids. I remember my 4 yr old cousin poking and pulling her tale and she didn't even blink. However the one i had before i koved to ireland i wouldn't trust with children under 13. She just didn't have the experience with small people and got so so excited when she saw them that she would have knocked them over if she was off a lead. However i think if raised from a pup with children then they are ok.

Also as mentioned they should never be off a lead as their prey drive is just so strong. I used to let my girl off the leash at an isolated beach until she took off one day, dissappeared up the stairs and into the bush. I finally found her terrorising an echidna! Not even the spikes in her mouth was enough to deter her! So if you want a dog that will happily trot alongside you off the leash then a husky is not for you. Also many of them have no road sense whatsoever which is another reason they souldn't be off the leash. Also if you are in a country area they are likey to chase cows and sheep.

Don't underestimate the amount of grooming they need when they 'blow' their coat. You will literally be pulling out handfulls of soft fur. It gets everywhere and they do this twice a year. If you were into spinning wool though i reckon you could get gorgeous soft wool from them to make a hat & gloves each year!

They are a pack dog and will try to assert their domiance from day 1. You need to make sure you are the pack leader instead otherwise it will be a nightmare! Things like always making sure they sit before getting food, never letting them walk in through a door before you etc will help assert you as the pack leader.

With all that said i still wouldn't have anything else! You just need to be aware that they have different requirements to other dogs and if you a want a dog you can let off a lead and throw a tennis ball at for it to retreive then a husky (or mal) isn't for you.

PeakOutput

ISDW wrote: »

You will find with most sibes that are good off lead until they hit about 10 months of age, thats when they realise they can outrun you:p

You sound as though you and your sister have been doing the right things with training, I firmly believe that you need to train recall to sibes, even though you won't let them off the lead. Accidents can happen, yesterday on a beach, two of my dogs got tangled up, and somehow the clip opened on one of the leads, letting one of the dogs free. Thankfully he didn't realise, and he lay down and I got his lead back on.

There is a woman in Ireland that does obedience and agility with a siberian, which is fantastic, and I really admire her, but that is the exception. Treat based training is the way to go, you just have to find something that the dog really, really, really loves. Liver is one thing, or little bits of cheese, or hot dog.

A backpack is also a good thing, once the dog is a bit older, makes them work when they're walking. And if you want to teach the dog left and right, you may hitch it up to a scooter or bike then when its over a year old. Gee for right, Haw for left are the usual mushing commands. Just when you're walking, every time you turn, say the word, the dog will learn.

thanks, i thought it would be cruel to not let them off the lead in the long run so thought it would be best to start doing it now but it looks like that just wont work out, there was one time last week were she took off after a flock of birds and bolted straight across a road in the park and all i could think of was my sister is going to kill me

im only home once or twice a month so its not our dog by any stretch but i guess ill get to have all the craic and not much heart ache.

also mentioned that a harness you can put weights in would be a good idea but they think that sounds cruel but ill bring it up again

ISDW

PeakOutput wrote: »

thanks, i thought it would be cruel to not let them off the lead in the long run so thought it would be best to start doing it now but it looks like that just wont work out, there was one time last week were she took off after a flock of birds and bolted straight across a road in the park and all i could think of was my sister is going to kill me

im only home once or twice a month so its not our dog by any stretch but i guess ill get to have all the craic and not much heart ache.

also mentioned that a harness you can put weights in would be a good idea but they think that sounds cruel but ill bring it up again

Where do they live? If they came along to a Tails 'n' Trails meet, they would see the dogs working with big happy faces, definitely not cruel. A tired husky (or any dog) is a happy husky I think.

It is such a shame about not being able to let them off lead, I love watching them run, but unfortunately it is just part of owning this special breed. I work mine on a 3 wheeled rig or 2 wheeled scooter and so I get to see them run, from behind, usually hanging on for dear life.:eek:

mel.b

PeakOutput wrote: »

.

also mentioned that a harness you can put weights in would be a good idea but they think that sounds cruel but ill bring it up again

check out this link from the alaskan malamute club of victoria about backpacking with you dog. The website also has lots of great info to read and think about if you are considering one (or a husky as all the info still applies)

http://www.amcv.org.au/backpacking.html

leelaaloo

oh what a gorgeous puppy his head looks like a teddy bear.your other dog seems to love him..

leelaaloo

mel.b wrote: »

I don't have a husky but have owned several malamutes. As another poster said mals are similar to huskies, except huskies are built for speed and mals for strength.

They are a great breed of dog and honestly i wouldn't have anything else. However they are a lot of work. Obedience training from day 1 is an absoute must. I also found using a 'halti' rather than the traditional leads makes them much easier to walk. I can't believe the number of people i see walking mals and huskies with shoulder harnesses. These dogs were breed to pull and put a shoulder harness on them and that is exactly what they are going to do!

The girl we had while i was growing up was fantastic with small kids. I remember my 4 yr old cousin poking and pulling her tale and she didn't even blink. However the one i had before i koved to ireland i wouldn't trust with children under 13. She just didn't have the experience with small people and got so so excited when she saw them that she would have knocked them over if she was off a lead. However i think if raised from a pup with children then they are ok.

Also as mentioned they should never be off a lead as their prey drive is just so strong. I used to let my girl off the leash at an isolated beach until she took off one day, dissappeared up the stairs and into the bush. I finally found her terrorising an echidna! Not even the spikes in her mouth was enough to deter her! So if you want a dog that will happily trot alongside you off the leash then a husky is not for you. Also many of them have no road sense whatsoever which is another reason they souldn't be off the leash. Also if you are in a country area they are likey to chase cows and sheep.

Don't underestimate the amount of grooming they need when they 'blow' their coat. You will literally be pulling out handfulls of soft fur. It gets everywhere and they do this twice a year. If you were into spinning wool though i reckon you could get gorgeous soft wool from them to make a hat & gloves each year!

They are a pack dog and will try to assert their domiance from day 1. You need to make sure you are the pack leader instead otherwise it will be a nightmare! Things like always making sure they sit before getting food, never letting them walk in through a door before you etc will help assert you as the pack leader.

With all that said i still wouldn't have anything else! You just need to be aware that they have different requirements to other dogs and if you a want a dog you can let off a lead and throw a tennis ball at for it to retreive then a husky (or mal) isn't for you.

thanks mel b.ur very well informed, as everyone seems to be on this thread.great info.thanks a mill..

leelaaloo

Irishcrx wrote: »

Another Sibe owner here, my lad is two this month and I have to say they are a fantastic breed. As mentioned they need alot of exercise and training, but that has build my bond with him over the two years so much I wouldn't have done it any other way. I have had so much craic with him, he has so much personality, has made me laugh more than anyone has before. There is not one ounce of aggression in him, nor is he very skittish around other people. He is great with children, all my nieces and nephews love him and he loves to play with them. I wouldn't change him for the world, I also have a German shep and they get along likea house on fire.

However, remember that they are not all like this. Overbreeding has in some dogs caused a spike in their aggression and I have seen this aswell, so if buying do reserach and find a good breeder. Also be ready to give them the time and effort they need to become a good dog. As puppys and through all their life really they require a firm owner who will lay the law down when needed.

thanks Irishcrx.sounds like a great dog to have.a lot of work but worth it in the end i hope..have sooooooo much to think about.

leelaaloo

boomerang wrote: »

This popped up on another forum recently:


If you have ever uttered to yourself, “please dear Lord, let that pass through ‘em without the need for surgical attention.” …You probably own a Husky.

If valuable objects in your home are ranked according to jumping height from the ground …You probably own a Husky.

If you’ve thought, at least once in the past month, that you should be nominated for Sainthood…You probably own a Husky.

If you’ve been on walks with your dog and thought, “Oh, I hope nobody just witnessed THAT!” …You probably own a Husky.

If your dog thinks or thought at any time in life, that its full name may be part of a curse word…You probably own a Husky.

If you have more fur in your home than your dog has on it, giving the appearance to outsiders that you reside inside of a cotton ball…You probably own a Husky.

If you have started a veterinary fund for “just in case” moments…You probably own a Husky.

If you have a ‘correct dog placement process’ before answering your front door…You probably own a Husky.

If your backyard looks like fencing seen at Alcatraz…You probably own Husky.

If the family cat or other small animals in the home look at your dog as if they know they could be bumped off at any time…You probably own a Husky.

If you’ve ever responded to your spouse or other family members in the home with, “Don’t tell me, I don’t even want to know about it!” You probably own a Husky.

If one or more pieces of fur make it daily into a dish or beverage that you continue to consider perfectly consumable. However, you would freak out if you found a human hair…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever lost out on a meal because you weren’t paying attention, or blinked…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever thought to yourself ‘why would anyone do this twice’ and then do it again…willingly…You probably own a Husky.

If you purchase black clothing, full well knowing you will wear it gray…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever been in the process of cleaning up the first disaster when your dog is working on a second…You probably own a Husky.

If you have now purchased stock in a sticky roller company…You probably own a Husky.

If you have advised anyone as to which vacuum is the “best on the market”…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever gotten a call by the veterinarian that it is not only okay to pick up your dog early from its procedure, but it is now being encouraged…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever had to chase your dog through your neighborhood, barefoot, because putting on shoes would’ve taken far too long…You probably own a Husky.

If your yearly Christmas tree is now decorated at the top only, and/or has been securely anchored to a wall…You probably own a Husky.

If you can’t even remember what your good holiday decorations look like, because you no longer display them…You probably own a Husky.

If you’ve ever had to explain to your children/step children that ‘no they haven’t been bad, you just can’t put any presents under the tree until they are ready to be opened’…You probably own a Husky.

If you have ever laughed manically at an obedience trainer’s ad that boasts they “can change any behavior within the first visit”…You probably own a Husky.

If your dog’s toy bin resembles a scene from the beaches of Normandy rather than anything from a PetSmart shelf…You probably own a Husky.

If Goodwill has declined to take items of yours….You probably own a Husky.

If you can carry on a conversation with your dog better than you could with most people you’ve met…You probably own a Husky.

If your dog and your family are of equal worth and importance to you…You probably own a Husky.

whoa ,seroius stuff, would have to take issue with the xmas tree

koneko

Whereabouts do you live? If you happen to be near me you're welcome to meet some of my pack.

I think everyone else has covered it pretty much, they're a wonderful wonderful breed, but a lot of work and dedication is needed. I see a lot of stories online of people who end up dumping theirs as they have 1 dog, keep it inside and don't exercise it, it's bored and lonely and gets destructive, and then they just get rid
So when I meet people while walking mine, I find myself talking them out of getting one unless they're *really* willing and prepared, otherwise the poor thing will end up in a pound.

Also, beware, they'll take over your life

JazzyJ

http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=10150119614672474&set=a.10150119614077474.319587.270131087473

This little huskie needs to be homed by the 11th!! Just a thought.

Chris_Heilong

Wow! that Husky looks great very unusual colours. Sounds friendly too.

PeakOutput

JazzyJ wrote: »

http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=10150119614672474&set=a.10150119614077474.319587.270131087473

This little huskie needs to be homed by the 11th!! Just a thought.

sent that link to someone who has 3 huskies who are briliantly taken care off but having read the organisations ridicolous rehoming policies i doubt they will be able to help

pitbull_fanatic

i recommend a staffie as a family pet!!

ISDW

PeakOutput wrote: »

sent that link to someone who has 3 huskies who are briliantly taken care off but having read the organisations ridicolous rehoming policies i doubt they will be able to help

What did you not like about their rehoming policies?

The dog is actually in Dunboyne pound, and they don't have any rehoming policies, if you just go and pay the rehoming fee, you can take the dog out. It has until 11th to be reclaimed, then can be rehomed, but I think they take bookings. If nobody claims or rehomes it by 11th, then A Dogs Life will try and get the dog out to safety.

I don't think its a siberian husky, I think she may be a mal cross, gorgeous dog though.

PeakOutput

ISDW wrote: »

What did you not like about their rehoming policies?

The dog is actually in Dunboyne pound, and they don't have any rehoming policies, if you just go and pay the rehoming fee, you can take the dog out. It has until 11th to be reclaimed, then can be rehomed, but I think they take bookings. If nobody claims or rehomes it by 11th, then A Dogs Life will try and get the dog out to safety.

I don't think its a siberian husky, I think she may be a mal cross, gorgeous dog though.

ill say that to her, the main one is this

2. We only place dogs into homes where they will be kept mainly as a house dog. The dog must sleep in the house. Our intention is that our dogs are taken on as cherished members of the family. We do not permit our dogs to be kennelled outdoors.

i just find that ridicolous (particularly for larger dogs and particularly for any cold weather breeds) i dont think its in anyway cruel or unreasonable to have a dog sleep outside, we happen to have ours sleep inside but having a hard and fast rule that nobody who will have their dog sleeping outside no matter how good the conditions just sounds ridicolous to me

the other one is the leaving alone for long periods, i assume its refering to people with full time jobs(someone else on this forum complained recently i think that they couldnt rehome because they both had full time jobs) at the very least if there is another dog in the house it shouldnt be a problem if they are at home say from 9-5 together

im not saying no rules is the way to go but they just sound way over the top

Toulouse

That dog is still in the pound so if they are interested I suggest they ring the pound to find out what her status is quoting kennel number 14.

There is no guarantee that the dog will even be taken out by A Dog's Life as they are chocca at the moment, it could go to another rescue.

Peakoutput, with all respect A Dog's Life are a small rescue with no premises run by volunteers with full time jobs not even in the animal industry. The rehoming conditions are there for a reason and people who can't agree to them are invited to contact A Dog's Life to discuss them. The working all day rule can be gotten around by using a dog walker for example. I don't think rescue organisations should be put down for trying to do the best for the animals which in this case are all strays taken from the pound.

ISDW

PeakOutput wrote: »

ill say that to her, the main one is this



i just find that ridicolous (particularly for larger dogs and particularly for any cold weather breeds) i dont think its in anyway cruel or unreasonable to have a dog sleep outside, we happen to have ours sleep inside but having a hard and fast rule that nobody who will have their dog sleeping outside no matter how good the conditions just sounds ridicolous to me

the other one is the leaving alone for long periods, i assume its refering to people with full time jobs(someone else on this forum complained recently i think that they couldnt rehome because they both had full time jobs) at the very least if there is another dog in the house it shouldnt be a problem if they are at home say from 9-5 together

im not saying no rules is the way to go but they just sound way over the top

Most of the smaller rescues are actually very reasonable, and the rules can be bent for the right home. Rescues are just worried that people will take a dog on, and then it will sleep outside, then spend all day out there, and end up with virtually no contact from its family at all.

I agree that a working dog, like a husky can live outside if the kennel is good enough, and there is lots of interaction with the humans of the family.